2011-02-01:Mandela is ‘doing well’

Concerns have been raised about the number of visitors to the Mandela home, where the former president is recuperating from an acute respiratory infection.
NELSON Mandela is responding well to treatment, but his doctors are concerned by the number of people visiting him.

Madiba is recovering well at home (Photo: Nelson Mandela Foundation)Madiba is recovering well at home (Photo: Nelson Mandela Foundation)This is the official word from the acting president, Kgalema Motlanthe, who spoke on 31 January.

A day earlier, the Department of Defence released a statement saying the former president and world leader was “responding very well to medication and treatment”.

Mandela was admitted to Milpark Hospital on 26 January with an acute respiratory infection; he was discharged two days later and is now recuperating at his home in Houghton. He is being closely monitored around the clock.

“The doctors who are taking care of President Mandela remain concerned about the number of people visiting,” Motlanthe said yesterday. “Doctors must also be allowed to do their work without any undue pressure and in an atmosphere that allows them to carry on with their duties without any disturbance.”

Mandela’s medical team is led by Surgeon-General Veejay Ramlakan, who said he had had a peaceful night’s rest after two days at home.

President Jacob Zuma, who is attending an African Union summit in Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, thanked the thousands of people who have sent their well wishes to Mandela.

“We truly appreciate the support and good wishes we received when he was in hospital this week," said the president.

Messages came from across the world, including from US President Barack Obama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Other South Africans are also showing their support. Lead SA organised the Light a Candle of Hope initiative, which called on South Africans to light a candle at midnight on 29 January in support of Mandela.

Regina Mundi Catholic Church in Soweto held a vigil a day later attended by Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane, who joined the congregation in prayer for Mandela’s speedy recovery.

“We wish to take this opportunity to thank all our people and friends around the world for their continued support to President Mandela and his family, and want to assure them that we are doing all we can to ensure that he recovers fully. We appreciate all the prayers and love shown to Madiba,” said Motlanthe.